Specialist Dr. Yaprak Arslan Psychiatrist & Psychotherapist

The tragic loss that has unfolded in recent days in full view of the public has once again highlighted how serious and difficult to detect eating disorders are as a mental health issue.

At the same time, the way social media has approached the issue has made me feel the need to share informative content about this illness.

Anorexia Nervosa is not merely an individual problem; it is a serious mental health issue that requires societal awareness and responsibility.

These experiences show how invisible body image issues can be and how deeply they can affect individuals when not recognised in time. Social media content that puts pressure on young people, appearance-focused approaches, and stereotypical beauty standards can negatively impact eating behaviours.

What is Anorexia Nervosa and What is it Not?

Anorexia Nervosa is not simply a ‘desire to stay thin’ or a ‘diet that has gotten out of control.’

This disorder is an eating disorder caused by a distorted body image that can lead to serious psychological and physical consequences.

An individual may perceive themselves as overweight even though they are significantly below their normal weight; this perception can significantly influence their behaviour.

Why Is It Not Recognised?

Anorexia is often mislabelled as a matter of ‘willpower’ or ‘determination to lose weight.’ Such interpretations obscure the severity of the psychological challenges the individual is facing. Idealised body images and constantly presented ‘perfect’ appearances on social media can cause intense emotional pressure, especially in adolescents.

The Role of Social Media

Social media has become an important means of expression and visibility, especially for young people.

This situation can cause individuals to constantly compare themselves to others.

Portraying thinness as a sign of success can lead to an unhealthy body image.

At this point, content creators and their followers have a great responsibility:

To be careful when commenting on appearance,

To avoid presenting excessive weight loss as ‘determination’ or ‘success,’

Make room for content that promotes health and well-being rather than thinness...

Without forgetting that social media is not only a reflection of society but also a guiding tool, it is important to remember to use a more sensitive and careful language when sharing.

Our Responsibility as a Society

The greatest power against anorexia is awareness and understanding. Avoiding body-focused comments, especially with young people, and talking about feelings rather than ‘shape,’ seeing them not just visually but also emotionally, is very important.

Even seemingly well-meaning phrases like ‘You've lost so much weight!’ can have a significant impact. Focusing on feelings rather than the body is always safer.

Treatment and Support Process

Anorexia Nervosa is a treatable condition. A multidisciplinary approach combining psychiatry, psychotherapy, and nutrition expertise can help individuals strengthen both physically and psychologically. Early intervention is crucial in this process.

We need to be kinder, more attentive, and more genuine towards one another. Sometimes, all it takes is to pause and truly look to see what is invisible.